Lapachhapi

Straight up, Lapachhapi is by far the best Marathi horror film till date. What director Vishal Furia has achieved with this film is something that can be looked at as a beginning for Marathi filmmakers to explore this relatively untapped genre.


The film begins with Neha (Sawant) and Tushar (Gaikwad) leaving the city after some goons thrash the latter. The husband-wife go to their driver Bhaurao’s (Gawas) farm ina distant village as Tushar feels it better to stay away from the city until the situation betters. An eight-month pregnant Neha has her doubts about staying at a place where there is nothing but sugarcane crop around but Tushar convinces her. At the farm, Neha meets Tulsabai (Naik), Bhaurao’s wife. Tulsa seems to be very caring and affectionate towards Neha but there’s something fishy about her. As days pass, Neha starts experiencing illusions and the situation worsens. But are these really illusions or is the place haunted?


Right from the word ‘go’, Lapachhapi engages you and it maintains the pace throughout. The build-up takes some time but is effective and haunting music and cinematography add to the feeling. This film infuses elements of Hollywood horror flicks. Be it creepy music or sudden flashes of the spirits, Lapachhapi has ample scenes that send chills down your spine.


As for the actors, Pooja Sawant owns this film. Unlike her previous outings, she is at her best here and delivers a commendable performance. Usha Naik’s performance is worth appreciating too.


The Marathi industry has explored the horror-comedy genre before but out and out horror is something untouched here. Only the recently released Kanika tried its hand at the genre. Lapachhapi does the same and excels. The climax could’ve been better but this is one film that is recommended if horror is your thing.